Shower bar system

ABSTRACT

A shower system, a handshower system and a transfer valve assembly. The system may include an adjustable supply assembly fluidly connectable to the water supply pipe, the supply assembly including an adapter defining an axis and having an inlet coupleable to the pipe outlet, a supply member having a supply outlet and coupled in fluid communication with the adapter, the supply member being coupled to the adapter for movement along the axis to adjust a distance between the pipe outlet and the supply outlet, and a seal positioned and operable to provide a sealed connection between the adapter and the supply member in adjusted positions the supply member relative to the adapter. A shower bar assembly may include a main supply pipe having a supply inlet fluidly connectable to the pipe outlet and a supply outlet, a return pipe having a return inlet and a return outlet fluidly connected to the first shower member inlet, and an outer pipe surrounding the main supply pipe and the return pipe, a gap being provided between the outer supply pipe, the main supply pipe and the return pipe. The handshower system may include an angled connector between the shower bar assembly and the handshower hose. In a first configuration of the transfer valve, the first inlet is fluidly connected to a water supply with a pipe outlet at a first height and the second inlet is not fluidly connected to a water supply. In a second configuration of the transfer valve, the first inlet is not fluidly connected to a water supply and the second inlet is fluidly connected to a water supply with a pipe outlet at a second height different that the first height.

RELATED APPLICATION

The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 13/328,832, filed on Dec. 16, 2011, which claims priority toU.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/424,539, filed Dec. 17, 2010,the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD

The present invention relates shower systems and, more particularly, toa shower bar system.

BACKGROUND

Shower bar systems are common in many showers and bathing facilities.Shower bar systems typically include a showerhead and a vertical bar,often called a shower bar. The shower bar may be aesthetically pleasingand/or may be used as a grab bar by users.

SUMMARY

In one independent embodiment, a shower system is connectable to a watersupply, the water supply including a supply pipe having a pipe outlet,and the shower system may generally include an adjustable supplyassembly fluidly connectable to the supply pipe, a shower bar fluidlyconnectable to the supply assembly and a shower member fluidlyconnectable to the shower bar to dispense water from the water supply.The supply assembly may include an adapter defining an axis and havingan inlet coupleable to the pipe outlet, a supply member having a supplyoutlet and coupled in fluid communication with the adapter, the supplymember being coupled to the adapter for movement along the axis toadjust a distance between the pipe outlet and the supply outlet, and aseal positioned and operable to provide a sealed connection between theadapter and the supply member in adjusted positions the supply memberrelative to the adapter. The shower bar may include a shower pipe havinga shower pipe inlet coupleable to the supply outlet and a shower pipeoutlet, the shower pipe inlet being coupleable to the supply outlet in aposition a first distance from the pipe outlet, the supply member beingmovable relative to the pipe outlet to position the supply outlet at thefirst distance.

In some embodiments, the shower system is mounted in an enclosure havinga wall. The supply pipe is located on one side of the wall, and theshower bar is located on the other side of the wall. The supply assemblymay further include a mounting collar engageable with the other side ofthe wall, the supply member being coupled to the mounting collar tosupport shower bar.

The supply member may be slidably coupled to the adapter. The seal mayinclude an o-ring between the adapter and the supply member. The adaptermay be threadedly coupled to the supply pipe.

In another independent embodiment, a shower system may generally includea first shower member fluidly connectable to and operable to dispensewater from the water supply, the first shower member having a firstshower member inlet, a second shower member fluidly connectable to andoperable to dispense water from the water supply, the second showermember having a second shower member inlet, a shower bar assemblyfluidly connectable to the water supply, and a transfer valve assemblycoupleable to the shower bar assembly and operable to selectively directwater to the first shower member and to the second shower member. Theshower bar assembly may include a main supply pipe having a supply inletfluidly connectable to the pipe outlet and a supply outlet, a returnpipe having a return inlet and a return outlet fluidly connected to thefirst shower member inlet, and an outer pipe surrounding the main supplypipe and the return pipe, a gap being provided between the outer supplypipe, the main supply pipe and the return pipe. The transfer valveassembly may include a valve body defining a valve inlet fluidlyconnectable to the supply outlet, a first valve outlet fluidlyconnectable to the return inlet, and a second valve outlet fluidlyconnected to the second shower member inlet, a valve member positionedin the valve body for adjustment between a first condition, in which thevalve inlet is in fluid communication with the first valve outlet and isnot in fluid communication with the second valve outlet, and a secondcondition, in which the valve inlet is in fluid communication with thesecond valve outlet and is not in fluid communication with the firstvalve outlet, and an actuator operable to adjust the valve memberbetween the first condition and the second condition.

In some embodiments, the first shower member is a showerhead, and thesecond shower member is a handshower. The handshower may include a hosehaving an inlet coupled to the second valve outlet. The valve member maybe pivotable between the first condition and the second condition. Theactuator may include a handle engageable by a user.

In yet another independent embodiment, a handshower system may generallyinclude a shower supply pipe having a supply inlet fluidly connectableto the pipe outlet and a supply outlet, the shower supply pipe extendingalong an axis and being positioned with the axis oriented generallyvertically, a connector having a connector inlet fluidly connected tothe supply outlet and a connector outlet, the connector outlet definingan outlet axis, the outlet axis being angled relative to the axis of theshower supply pipe, a hose having a hose inlet fluidly connected to theconnector outlet and a hose outlet, the hose having a first portionproximate the hose inlet, the first portion generally extending alongthe outlet axis and being angled relative to the axis of the showersupply pipe, and a handshower member coupled to the hose outlet, waterfrom the water supply being dispensed through the handshower member.

In some embodiments, the outlet axis may be angled about 45 degrees fromthe axis of the shower supply pipe. The connector may be pivotallycoupled to the shower supply pipe for pivoting movement about the axisof the shower supply pipe. A handshower support member may be operableto support the handshower along the shower supply pipe. An outer pipemay surround the shower supply pipe, and the support member may beslidable along the outer pipe. The support member may be coupled to theouter pipe for pivoting movement about the axis of the shower supplypipe.

In a further independent embodiment, a transfer valve assembly for ashower system may generally include a body, a valve member supported bythe body, and an actuator. The body may define a first inlet, a secondinlet, a first outlet fluidly connectable to the first water dispensingapparatus and a second outlet fluidly connectable to the second waterdispensing apparatus, in a first configuration of the transfer valve,the first inlet being fluidly connected to a water supply with a pipeoutlet at a first height and the second inlet not being fluidlyconnected to a water supply, in a second configuration of the transfervalve, the first inlet not being fluidly connected to a water supply andthe second inlet being fluidly connected to a water supply with a pipeoutlet at a second height different that the first height. The valvemember may be adjustable between a first condition, in which the firstoutlet is fluidly connected to the water supply, and a second condition,in which the second outlet is fluidly connected to the water supply. Theactuator may be operable to adjust the valve member between the firstcondition and the second condition.

In some embodiments, in the first configuration, the valve member has awall preventing fluid communication between the first inlet and thesecond inlet and defines a cavity in fluid communication with the firstinlet, in the first condition, the cavity fluidly communicates with thefirst outlet, in the second condition, the cavity fluidly communicateswith the second outlet. In the second configuration, a plug preventsfluid communication between the first inlet and the second inlet, andwherein the valve member defines a cavity in fluid communication withthe second inlet, in the first condition, the cavity fluidlycommunicates with the first outlet, in the second condition, the cavityfluidly communicates with the second outlet. The valve member may bepivotable between the first condition and the second condition. Theactuator may include a handle engageable by a user.

In another independent embodiment, a shower system may generally includea water dispensing apparatus and a pipe arrangement defining a firstinlet, a second inlet, and an outlet fluidly connected to the waterdispensing apparatus, in a first configuration of the pipe arrangement,the first inlet being fluidly connected to a water supply with a pipeoutlet at a first height, and the second inlet not being fluidlyconnected to a water supply, in a second configuration of the pipearrangement, the first inlet not being fluidly connected to a watersupply, and the second inlet being fluidly connected to a water supplywith a pipe outlet at a second height different that the first height.

In some embodiments, the pipe arrangement includes a first supply pipeproviding the first inlet, and a second supply pipe providing the secondinlet. The system may include a second water dispensing apparatus, andthe pipe arrangement may define a second outlet fluidly connected to thesecond water dispensing apparatus. The pipe arrangement may include atransfer valve assembly including a transfer valve body providing thesecond inlet, the first outlet and the second outlet, a valve memberpositioned in the valve body for adjustment between a first condition,in which the valve inlet is in fluid communication with the first valveoutlet and is not in fluid communication with the second valve outlet,and a second condition, in which the valve inlet is in fluidcommunication with the second valve outlet and is not in fluidcommunication with the first valve outlet, and an actuator operable toadjust the valve member between the first condition and the secondcondition.

Independent aspects of the invention will become apparent byconsideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a shower bar system.

FIG. 2 is a sectional view of an upper supply assembly of the systemshown in FIG. 1, taken along line 2-2 in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an inlet connector of the system shownin FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a sectional view of the inlet connector illustrated in FIG. 3,taken along line 4-4 in FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an upper supply bracket of the systemshown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a sectional view of the upper supply assembly and a portion ofa shower bar shown in FIG. 1, taken along line 6-6 in FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 is a sectional view of a portion of a transfer valve and a secondportion of the shower bar illustrated in FIG. 1, taken along line 7-7 inFIG. 1.

FIG. 8 is a sectional view of the transfer valve partially illustratedin FIG. 7, taken along line 8-8 in FIG. 1.

FIG. 9 is a sectional view of a diverter connector of the transfer valveshown in FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a diverter valve of the transfer valveshown in FIG. 8.

FIG. 11 is a sectional view of the diverter valve illustrated in FIG.10, taken along line 11-11 in FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a clip of the transfer valve shown inFIG. 8.

FIG. 13 illustrates the diverter stem, of the transfer valve shown inFIG. 8, in a first position.

FIG. 14 illustrates the diverter stem, of the transfer valve shown inFIG. 8, in a second position.

FIG. 15 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a transfer valve,showing the diverter stem in a third position.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a flat seal of the transfer valve shownin FIG. 8.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a transfer valve body of the systemshown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a transfervalve body.

FIG. 19 is a sectional view of an angled hose connector of the systemshown in FIG. 1, taken along line 19-19 in FIG. 1.

FIG. 20 is a partial sectional view of a showerhead connection assembly,taken along line 20-20 of FIG. 1.

FIG. 21 is a partial sectional view of a showerhead shown in FIG. 1,taken along line 21-21 in FIG. 1.

FIG. 22 is a sectional view of an alternative configuration of atransfer valve modified to accommodate an installation in which a watersupply pipe is at a lower height.

FIG. 23 is a sectional view of an alternative configuration of an uppersupply assembly modified to accommodate an installation in which thewater supply pipe is at a lower height.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of an alternative configuration of adiverter valve of the transfer valve shown in FIG. 8.

FIG. 25 is a sectional view of the diverter valve shown in FIG. 24,taken along line 25-25 in FIG. 24.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before any independent embodiments of the invention are explained indetail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in itsapplication to the details of construction and the arrangement ofcomponents set forth in the following description or illustrated in theaccompanying drawings. The invention is capable of other independentembodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in variousways.

FIG. 1 illustrates a shower bar system 20 used with a showerhead 22 anda handshower 24. The shower bar system 20 is connectable to a watersupply (e.g., household/residential, commercial, etc.). The illustratedshower bar system 20 generally includes a shower bar 26, an upper supplyassembly 28, a transfer valve assembly 30, an angled hose connector 32,a bracket assembly 34 and a showerhead connection assembly 36.

The upper supply assembly 28, illustrated in section in FIG. 2, includesa supply adapter 40, a mounting collar 44, an escutcheon 48, a trimsleeve 52, an upper supply bracket 56, a supply connector 60, and aninlet connector 64.

The supply adapter 40 includes an inlet port 68 with threads to allowthe supply adapter 40 to be coupled to a water supply pipe P. The supplyadapter 40 also includes an outlet port 72 through which water exits thesupply adapter 40 and enters the upper supply bracket 56. The interiorof the outlet port 72 has a shape (e.g., hexagonal) to allow the supplyadapter 40 to be rotated about an axis by a tool with acomplementary-shaped head to threadedly couple the supply adapter 40 tothe water supply pipe P.

The upper supply bracket 56 receives the outlet end of the supplyadapter 40 at one end and, at the other end, has an annular portion 74.One or more seals 76 (e.g., o-rings) are disposed on the supply adapter40 to seal the connection between the supply adapter 40 and the uppersupply bracket 56. Each seal 76 may serve to provide a seal between twomembers and/or a friction fit inhibiting relative movement between twomembers. In other embodiments (not shown), different types of sealsand/or frictional members may be used in the shower bar system 20. Also,in other embodiments (not shown), the outlet end of the supply adapter40 may receive the supply bracket 56.

In the illustrated embodiment, the supply adapter 40 and the uppersupply bracket 56 are axially slidable relative to one another whilemaintaining the sealed connection. Such relative sliding movementbetween the supply adapter 40 and the upper supply bracket 56accommodates different wall thicknesses and/or variations in the depthof an existing water supply pipe P relative to the exterior portion of ashower wall W. The distance between the outlet of the water supply pipeP and the outlet of the upper supply bracket 56 is adjustable.

The supply connector 60 is positioned at least partially in the uppersupply bracket 56. The illustrated supply connector 60 is generallycylindrical in shape and is hollow so that water may flow from the uppersupply bracket 56 to the inlet connector 64. External threads on thesupply connector 60 threadedly couple the supply connector 60 to theupper supply bracket 56. The interior of the supply connector 60 has ashape (e.g., hexagonal) to allow the supply connector 60 to be rotatedabout an axis by a tool with a complementary-shaped head. A seal 76 isdisposed on the supply connector 60 to seal the connection between thesupply connector 60 and the upper supply bracket 56. The supplyconnector 60 includes a tapered nose portion having a tapered seal 94which partially projects into the annular portion 74 to interface withthe inlet connector 64 and seal the connection between the supplyconnector 60 and the inlet connector 64. In other embodiments (notshown), other types of mating engagements are possible, such as aprotrusion of the inlet connector 64 in mating engagement with acorresponding recess of the supply connector 60.

The inlet connector 64 (see FIGS. 2-4) is disposed in the shower bar 26approximately in a location at which the shower bar 26 is received inthe annular portion 74 of the upper supply bracket 56. The inletconnector 64 defines a first cavity 80 and a second cavity 84. The firstcavity 80 is fluidly connected to the supply connector 60 and allowswater to flow from the supply connector 60 to a main supply pipe or tube88. As used herein, the term “pipe” should be understood to collectivelyrefer to any pipe, tube, other conduit, etc. capable of transportingfluid. The second cavity 84 allows water to pass from a first showerheadpipe 92 to a second showerhead pipe 96. The second showerhead pipe 96 issecured onto a fitting with a stainless steel clamp ring 82. The pipes88, 92, 96 provide a waterway assembly for the shower bar system 20.

The upper supply bracket 56, illustrated in perspective in FIG. 5,includes a first cylindrical section 100 and a second cylindricalsection 104 for assembly, as described below in more detail. In someembodiments (e.g. the illustrated embodiment), the diameter of thesecond cylindrical section 104 is greater than the diameter of the firstcylindrical section 100. A groove 108 is disposed between the firstcylindrical section 100 and the second cylindrical section 104. Thefirst cylindrical section 100 is threaded. As shown in FIG. 2, themounting collar 44 includes a circular opening 112 having a diameterapproximately equal to the diameter of the upper supply bracket 56, andcomplementary threads are disposed on the circular opening 112, thepurpose of which is explained below in more detail.

The illustrated shower bar 26 is constructed as a one piece pipe whichbegins at the showerhead connection assembly 36 (see FIG. 20), iscoupled to the upper supply bracket 56 (see FIG. 6), and ends at thetransfer valve assembly 30 (see FIG. 7). As best seen in FIG. 6, thesupply pipe 88, the first showerhead pipe 92, and the second showerheadpipe 96 are disposed in the interior of the shower bar 26 to provide atube-in-tube assembly. The shower bar 26 has an opening 116 whichcorresponds to an opening 120 (see FIG. 5) in the annular portion 74 ofthe upper supply bracket 56. The shower bar 26 has an o-ring 124 orother sealing/coupling member on either side of the opening 116,corresponding to grooves 128 in the annular portion 74 of the uppersupply bracket 56. Thus, when the shower bar 26 is inserted into annularportion 74 of the upper supply bracket 56, the o-rings 124 and grooves128 cooperate to couple the shower bar 26 to the upper supply bracket56. The o-rings 124 also act as a bearing to protect the finish of theshower bar 26 when the supply bracket 56 is assembled to the shower bar26.

In other constructions (not shown), the upper supply bracket and showerbar 26 may be assembled in a different manner. For example, the annularportion 74 may be provided with a slot or opening to receive the showerbar 26 radially (rather than axially) into the annular portion 74. Theannular portion 74 may be flexible and/or include a movable portion toopen and allow the shower bar 26 to be inserted and then to close andretain the shower bar 26. The annular portion 74 may include a retainingarrangement (e.g., a clip, a snap, a fastener, etc.) (not shown) to holdthe annular portion 74 in closed condition.

The supply pipe 88 and first showerhead pipe 92 are sized and configuredsuch that the supply pipe 88 and first showerhead pipe or tube 92 do nottouch each other or the shower bar 26 (see FIG. 6). Thus, a space 130 isprovided between the inner surface of the shower bar 26 and the internalcomponents (the supply pipe 88 and the first showerhead pipe or tube 92)which can inhibit thermal transfer between these components.

As shown in FIG. 2, the supply pipe 88 is coupled to the first cavity 80of the inlet connector 64 by brazing, soldering, welding, a swage fit,an interference fit, etc., and the first showerhead pipe 92 is coupledto the second cavity 84 of the inlet connector 64 in a similar manner.In the illustrated embodiment, the second showerhead pipe 96 is made ofa flexible material, such as cross-linked polyethylene (PEX). The secondshowerhead pipe 96 is flexible so that it can be inserted into a curvedportion of the shower bar 26. The second showerhead pipe 96 is coupledto a connection piece 132 by a crimping ring 136 (see FIG. 6), and theconnection piece 132 is coupled to the second cavity 84 of the inletconnector 64 by brazing, soldering, welding, a swage fit, aninterference fit, etc.

The showerhead 22 is coupled to the upper supply assembly 28 through theshower bar 26, shown in FIG. 1, and the showerhead connection assembly36. In the illustrated embodiment, the shower bar 26 is curved orarched. In alternative embodiments (not shown), the shower bar 26 mayinclude a sharper curve or be otherwise bent (e.g., at a right angle),for example, to accommodate low ceilings, or can take any other desiredshape.

The transfer valve assembly 30, illustrated in section in FIG. 8,includes a diverter connector 140, a transfer valve body 144, a diverterstem 148, a contoured seal 152, a screw 156, a handle 160, a mountingcollar 168, an escutcheon 172, a trim sleeve 176, and a check valve 180.The mounting collar 168, escutcheon 172, and trim sleeve 176 can besubstantially identical to the mounting collar 44, escutcheon 48, andtrim sleeve 52 described above in connection with the upper supplyassembly 28, but this need not be the case.

The illustrated transfer valve body 144 includes a first arm 184, asecond arm 188, a third arm 192, and a fourth arm 196 and defines aninternal cavity 200. The diverter connector 140, illustrated in sectionin FIG. 9, is coupled to the supply pipe 88 and to the first showerheadpipe 92. The diverter connector 140 is partially disposed in and coupledto the first arm 184 of the transfer valve body 144. The diverterconnector 140 defines a first cavity 204, which receives a portion ofthe supply pipe 88 in the internal cavity 200, and a second cavity 208,which receives a portion of the first showerhead pipe 92. The supplypipe 88 and first showerhead pipe 92 may be welded, brazed, etc. to thediverter connector 140. The diverter connector 140 is shown coupled tothe transfer valve body 144 using screws (see FIG. 19). In analternative embodiment (not shown), the diverter connector 140 may bewelded, brazed, etc. to the transfer valve body 144.

The illustrated diverter stem 148, shown in FIG. 10 and in section inFIG. 11, defines a first cavity 212 for receiving the screw 156, aportion of the first cavity 212 being threaded. The diverter stem 148 ispartially disposed within the transfer valve body 144. Two grooves 214are shown formed on the diverter stem 148. Seals 76 are positioned inthe grooves 214 to seal the diverter stem 148 and the transfer valvebody 144. The diverter stem 148 defines a second cavity 216 throughwhich water passes.

A clip 220, illustrated in FIG. 12, is keyed, pressed onto and fits in agrooved portion of the diverter stem 148 to inhibit rearward movement ofthe diverter stem 148 in the transfer valve body 144. The clip 220 turnswhen the diverter stem 148 is turned. In the illustrated embodiment, theclip 220 acts as a bearing against the front surface of the transfervalve body 144. The clip 220 includes an opening to allow the clip 220to be attached to the grooved portion of the diverter stem 148. The clip220 helps maintain a proper clearance gap between the handle 160 and thetransfer valve body 144. A portion of the clip 220 includes a flatsurface or rib to assist in removal of the clip 220 from the diverterstem 148 during product service. The clip 220 can be removed byspreading the flat surfaces with a tool, such as pliers. In theillustrated embodiment, the clip 220 is made of plastic, but, in otherembodiments, the clip 220 may be formed of another material, such asmetal.

The diverter stem 148 is rotatable at least about 180 degrees within thetransfer valve body 144. In a first position, the second cavity 216 isin communication with and receives water from the supply pipe 88 andoperates to supply water to the first showerhead pipe 92. FIG. 13illustrates the diverter stem 148 in the first position, showing thewater flow to the first showerhead pipe 92. In a second position (e.g.,180 degrees from the first position), the second cavity 216 is incommunication with and receives water from the supply pipe 88 andoperates to supply water to the check valve 180. FIG. 14 illustrates thediverter stem 148 in the second position, showing the water flow to thecheck valve 180.

An alternative embodiment includes a third position, and, in the thirdposition, the second cavity 216 is in communication with and receiveswater from the supply pipe 88 and operates to supply water to both thefirst showerhead pipe 92 and the check valve 180. FIG. 15 illustratesthe diverter stem 148 in the third position, showing the water flow tothe first showerhead pipe 92 and to the check valve 180.

The contoured seal 152, illustrated in FIG. 16, is placed over anopening of the second cavity 216. The contoured seal 152 includes twoprotrusions 174 which are sized and configured to be inserted intocorresponding slots on the diverter stem 148 in a seal pocket. Theprotrusions 174 assist in maintaining the position of the contoured seal152 relative to the diverter stem 148 when the diverter stem 148 isrotated. The protrusions also prevent the contoured seal 152 fromextruding or peeling into the outlets in the transfer valve body 144when the contoured seal 152 moves across the outlets.

The diverter stem 148 includes an opening 178 to allow water pressure topress against the contoured seal 152 when water pressure is present inthe second cavity 216. The water pressure against the contoured seal 152assists in pressing and sealing the contoured seal 152 to the firstshowerhead pipe 92 or to the check valve 180, depending on the positionof the diverter stem 148. When the diverter stem 148 is in the firstposition, the contoured seal 152 operates to shut off water flow to thecheck valve 180. When the diverter stem 148 is in the second position,the contoured seal 152 operates to shut off water flow to the firstshowerhead pipe 92.

The diverter stem 148 includes a groove 182 to allow a limited amount ofwater flow to the first showerhead pipe 92 and to the check valve 180when the diverter stem 148 is between the first position and the secondposition so that the valve is not completely shut off in thesepositions. This may ensure that there is not cross flow between the hotand cold water supply lines and water pressure does not build up in ahot and cold water mixing valve (part of the household or commercialwater supply system, not shown) which can effect operation of and/ordamage the mixing valve. In some alternative embodiments, the contouredseal 152 may be sized and configured to allow water to escape only tothe check valve 180 or only to the first showerhead pipe 92. Limitingthe water flow when the diverter stem 148 is between the first andsecond positions encourages the user to position the diverter stem 148in the first or second position.

The handle 160, best seen in section in FIG. 8, is coupled to thediverter stem 148 by the screw 156 or by a bolt, other fastener orfastening method. In the illustrated embodiment, the screw 156 passesthrough a recess in the fourth arm 196. A decorative end cap 224 may beplaced over a portion of the handle 160 to conceal the head of the screw156.

The handle 160 and diverter stem 148 are configured such that, when thehandle 160 rotates, the diverter stem 148 also rotates. The handle 160includes a protrusion 232 which mates with a recess 236 (best seen inFIG. 17) on the transfer valve body 144. The protrusion 232 and therecess 236 cooperate to limit the range of rotation of the handle 160and the diverter stem 148 to, for example, 180 degrees, and to definethe first and second positions of the diverter stem 148. In otherembodiments (not shown), the handle 160 and the diverter stem 148 may berotatable to a greater or lesser degree.

In an alternative embodiment, the handle 160 defines a cavity to receivea separate pin. A spring surrounds a portion of the pin and serves tobias the pin towards the transfer valve body 144. A recess 234, asillustrated in FIG. 18, at the each end of the range of rotation isdefined on the transfer valve body 144. The spring-biased pin andrecesses 234 cooperate to limit the range of rotation of the handle 160and the diverter stem 148. One or more intermediate recesses 234 may beprovided to, in cooperation with the pin, define the intermediateposition(s) of the handle 160 and the diverter stem 148. The opening inthe clip 220 provides clearance for the protrusion 232 or thespring-biased pin on the handle 160.

In the illustrated embodiment, the check valve 180 is disposedsubstantially in the third arm 192. The check valve 180 serves toprevent reversed/backflow of contaminated water into the shower barsystem 20 and to the water supply. Backflow may be caused by a backsiphon due to failure in the water supply system (e.g. water main orpipe breaks). Check valves or vacuum breakers are used in systems with amoveable water outlet, such as the handshower 24, that could be placedinto a vessel or bath fixture containing contaminated water. Theillustrated embodiment uses a commercially-available check valve 180,such as NEOPERL Model Number 31.4264.0, from NEOPERL, Inc., located inWaterbury, Conn. Referring to FIG. 8, a groove 237 is defined on thethird arm 192 so that a coupling nut 238 may be coupled to the third arm192. In an alternative embodiment, threads may be provided on the thirdarm 192 so that the coupling nut 238 may be threadedly coupled to thethird arm 192.

The second arm 188 includes a first cylindrical section 240 and a secondcylindrical section 244, and, in the illustrated embodiment, thediameter of the second cylindrical section 244 is greater than thediameter of the first cylindrical section 240. A grooved or recessedportion 246 is disposed between the first cylindrical section 240 andthe second cylindrical section 244. External threads are disposed on thefirst cylindrical section 240.

The illustrated transfer valve assembly 30 relies upon movement of thediverter stem 148 to different rotational positions to port fluid to andfrom the transfer valve assembly 30. Although the particular valve shapeand configuration described and illustrated herein provides variousadvantages in performance, it should be understood that other types ofvalves can be used that perform the same and other functions. By way ofexample only, the illustrated transfer valve assembly 30 can insteadtake the form of a multi-port ball, plug, or spool valve with portsappropriately selected and positioned with respect to one another with adiverter stem 148 moved by the handle 160 to adjust fluid flow asgenerally described herein. Such alternative types of transfer valvesfall within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

It should be understood that, in other embodiments (not shown), theshower bar system 20 may not include a transfer valve assembly. In suchembodiments, the shower bar system 20 would include only one waterdispensing device (e.g., a showerhead 22 or a handshower 24) such thattransfer of water flow is not required.

The angled hose connector 32, illustrated in section in FIG. 19,includes the coupling nut 238, a threaded pin 252, a bushing 256 and anelbow 260, all of which cooperate to define a passageway. The couplingnut 238 includes a tabbed portion 262 operable to couple the couplingnut 238 to the third arm 192 of the transfer valve body 144.

External threads are disposed on the threaded pin 252, and a hollowportion of the threaded pin 252 has a shaped (e.g. hexagonal) cutout toallow a tool with a complementary-shaped head to turn the threaded pin252. The elbow 260 has internal threads to couple to the threaded pin252. An end of the elbow 260 includes a groove 263. The illustratedelbow 260 is bent (from the inlet to the outlet) at an angle of, forexample, 135 degrees, although greater and lesser angles arecontemplated. In some embodiments, the angle can be between 95 degreesand 175 degrees. In other embodiments, the angle can be between 105degrees and 165 degrees. In still other embodiments, the angle can bebetween 115 degrees and 155 degrees. The elbow 260 can rotate 360degrees in either direction around the center axis of the bushing 256.

A hose 264 couples the angled hose connector 32 to the handshower 24.The illustrated hose 264 is constructed with plastic tubing to limit orprevent damage due to contact of the hose 264 with components of theshower bar system 20, the on/off valve V, etc. In addition, the elbow260 assists in guiding the hose 264 away from the shower on/off valve V.The hose 264 is commercially available from a number of suppliers. Thehose 264 includes a hose bushing 268 which is inserted onto a groove ofthe elbow 260 to couple the bushing 268 to the elbow 260. In analternative embodiment (not shown), the hose bushing 268 may bethreadedly coupled to the elbow 260. The hose 264 and the hose bushing268 are sealed together (e.g., by a washer (not shown) pressed againstthe hose bushing by the elbow). The hose 264 is free to rotate withinthe hose bushing 268. In the illustrated embodiment, the hose bushing268 is made of plastic, but, in an alternative embodiment, the hosebushing 268 may be formed of another material, such as metal.

In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the hose connector 32 may notbe used. Instead, the hose 264 would be directly coupled to the transfervalve body 144. In yet another alternative embodiment (not shown), thecheck valve 180 may be positioned in the hose 264 instead of in thetransfer valve body 144.

The handshower 24 is coupled to the hose 264 in a manner similar to thecoupling between the elbow 260 to the hose 264. In the illustratedembodiment, the handshower 24 is similar to the handshower shown anddescribed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,578,453, the entire contents of which arehereby incorporated by reference. It should be understood that, in otherembodiments (not shown), a different handshower (not shown) may be used,or the shower bar system 20 may not include a handshower.

Referring back to FIG. 1, the handshower 24, when not being held by theuser, may be held on the shower bar 26 by the bracket assembly 34. Theillustrated bracket assembly 34 is slidably supported on the shower bar26 to adjust the position (e.g., the height) of the handshower 24. Theconstruction of the shower bar 26 (encasing the supply pipe 88 and thefirst showerhead pipe 92) allows the bracket assembly 34 to easily slideup and down along and/or to pivot about the shower bar 26. The bracketassembly 34 may also allow the angle of the handshower 24 (about ahorizontal axis and/or about a vertical axis) to be adjusted as desiredby the user.

In the illustrated embodiment, the bracket assembly 34 is similar to thebracket assembly shown and described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,766,291, theentire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference. It shouldbe understood that, in other embodiments (not shown), a differentbracket assembly (not shown) may be used with the handshower 24, ifprovided.

The showerhead connection assembly 36 (see FIG. 20) includes an end cap272 and a showerhead adapter 276 to fluidly couple the second showerheadpipe 96 to the showerhead 22. The end cap 272 is sized such that aportion of the end cap 272 fits into the shower bar 26. The end cap 272includes a cavity which allows water to pass through. A first end of theend cap 272 is flared to allow an installer to easily insert therein atapered insert 280, which is coupled to the second showerhead pipe 96.The second showerhead pipe 96 is coupled to a fitting on an end of thetapered insert 280 by a stainless steel clamp ring 86. The taperedinsert 280 inhibits, by way of a plastic split lock ring 90, the end ofthe second showerhead pipe 96 from being withdrawn or decoupled from theend cap 272. The split lock ring 90 is disposed in a groove in the outersurface of the tapered insert 280 and fits into a machined undercut inan inner surface of the end cap 272. To seal the connection between theend cap 272 and the second showerhead pipe 96, a seal 76 is disposed inthe cavity of the end cap 272. Another seal member 76 is disposed on theexterior of the end cap 272 to secure the end cap 272 in the shower bar26.

One end of the showerhead adapter 276 is threadedly (or otherwise)coupled to the end cap 272. The showerhead adapter 276 includes a flatportion which engages with the end cap 272. The flat portion alsoassists in keeping the location of the showerhead adapter 276 consistentwith respect to the end cap 272. A seal 76 is disposed on the showerheadadapter 276 to seal the connection between the end cap 272 and theshowerhead adapter 276. A portion of the hollow cavity of the showerheadadapter 276 has a shape (e.g. hexagonal) to provide for the showerheadadapter 276 to be rotated or turned about an axis by a tool with acomplementary-shaped head. The other end of the showerhead adapter 276is threaded to couple the showerhead 22 to the showerhead adapter 276.

The showerhead 22, shown in section in FIG. 21, is threadedly coupled tothe showerhead adapter 276. The illustrated showerhead 22 is KohlerModel K-13695, available commercially from Kohler, Co. of Kohler, Wis.It should be understood that, in other embodiments (not shown), adifferent showerhead (not shown) may be used, or the shower system maynot include a showerhead (or showerhead connection assembly).

As mentioned above, the shower bar system 20 may be installed in newconstruction of a shower or bathing installation or retrofitted into anexisting installation. Assembly of the shower bar system 20 may be asfollows: the shower bar 26 is inserted into open annular portion 74 ofthe upper supply bracket 56, and the o-rings 124 engage the respectivegrooves 128. The supply connector 60 is then inserted and threaded intothe upper supply bracket 56 so that the supply connector 60 is pressedinto the first cavity 80 of the inlet connector 64 through openings 116,120. The trim sleeve 52 and escutcheon 48 are then disposed on thesecond cylindrical section 104 of the upper supply bracket 56.

To assemble the transfer valve assembly 30, the diverter stem 148 isinserted into the second arm 188 of the transfer valve body 144. Theforward end of the diverter stem 148 projects from the fourth arm 196,and the clip 220 is coupled to the diverter stem 148 to prevent it frommoving rearwardly in the transfer valve body 144. The handle 160 iscoupled in the proper orientation (with the protrusion 232 substantiallyreceived in the recess 236) to the diverter stem 148. The end cap 224 iscoupled to the end of the handle 160. The trim sleeve 176 and escutcheon172 are disposed on the second arm 188 of the transfer valve body 144,and the mounting collar 168 is threaded onto the second arm 188.

The diverter connector 140, with the attached supply pipe 88 and firstshowerhead pipe 92, is coupled to the first arm 184 of the transfervalve body 144. The lower end of the shower bar 26 is received in theannular space between the diverter connector 140 and the first arm 184and coupled to the transfer valve body 144 (e.g., by welding, brazing,etc.).

The check valve 180 is inserted into the third arm 192 and is held inplace by a friction fit. To couple the angled connector 32 to thetransfer valve assembly 30, the coupling nut 238 is then positioned ontothe third arm 192 of the transfer valve body 144 with the tabbed portionof the coupling nut 238 received in the groove on the third arm 144. Theangled hose connector 32 also helps contain the check valve 180 in thethird arm 192. The hose 268 is coupled to the angled connector 32, andthe handshower 24 is coupled to the hose 268. In an alternativeembodiment, the third arm 192 includes a groove disposed in the interiorthereof for receiving a flange or rib disposed on the check valve 180 tohelp maintain the check valve 180 in position when water is flowing.

To fix the upper supply bracket 56 to the shower wall W (see FIG. 2), afirst hole, having a diameter approximately equal to the diameter of thefirst cylindrical section 100 of the upper supply bracket 56, is made inthe wall W. A second hole and a third hole are made in the wall W, andthe mounting collar 44 is coupled to the wall W using fasteners (e.g.,toggle bolts and screws, etc.), disposed through the second and thirdholes. In an alternative embodiment, the mounting collar 44 is notcoupled to the wall W until after the upper supply bracket 56 is coupledto the mounting collar 44. In an alternative embodiment, toggle screwsor washers are placed between the mounting collar 44 and the shower wallW to distribute some or all of any pulling forces that may occur. Thesupply adapter 40 is threadedly coupled to the water supply pipe P.

The outlet end of the supply adapter 40 is received in the upper supplybracket 56 as the first cylindrical section 100 of the upper supplybracket 56 is inserted into the circular opening 112 of the mountingcollar 44. The upper supply bracket 56 is moved (e.g., slid) along thesupply adapter to the appropriate position based upon the distancebetween the outlet of the water supply pipe P (behind the wall W) anddesired position of the shower bar 26 (in front of the wall W). Theupper supply bracket 56 and supply adapter 40 are extended (e.g.,telescoped outwardly) to accommodate a larger distance (e.g., becausethe outlet of the water supply pipe P is farther from the wall W) or areretracted (e.g., telescoped inwardly) to accommodate a shorter distance(e.g., because the outlet of the water supply pipe P is closer to thewall W).

The upper supply bracket 56 and the mounting collar 44 are threadedlycoupled together. The mounting collar 44 and upper supply bracket 56bear any force applied to the shower bar system 20, rather than suchforce being applied to the water supply pipe P. In an alternativeembodiment, a tabbed portion of the mounting collar 44 snaps into thegroove 108 of the upper supply bracket 56 to secure the supply bracket56 to the mounting collar 44.

The trim sleeve 52 is then moved (e.g., slid) towards the wall until atabbed portion of the trim sleeve 52 snaps into a grooved portion 278 ofthe mounting collar 44. The escutcheon 48 is moved (e.g., slid) towardsthe wall W until the outer portion of the escutcheon 48 contacts thewall W. The escutcheon 48 is generally held in place by friction and mayinclude a frictional member 76 to assist in holding the escutcheon 48 onthe trim sleeve 52.

The mounting collar 168 on the transfer valve body 144 may be coupled tothe wall W in a similar manner. Two holes are made in the wall W, andthe mounting collar 168 is coupled to the wall W using toggle bolts andscrews, etc., placed through the holes. The trim sleeve 176 and theescutcheon 172 are positionable to provide for coupling of the mountingcollar 168 to the wall W and, thereafter, to cover and conceal theconnection.

The size of the waterway from the supply adapter 40 to the transfervalve 30 and from the transfer valve 30 to the showerhead adapter 276 isdesigned to allow sufficient water flow to maintain spray performance onlarger showerheads 22 and handshowers 24, even at low supply pressures.In the illustrated embodiments, the waterway has, for example, a minimum0.300 inch diameter or 0.071 square inch cross-sectional opening.

In the United States, the outlet of the water supply pipe P for theshower is usually positioned about 6 to 7 feet above the floor of theinstallation, and the shower bar system 20 is installed in the firstconfiguration, described above. However, in other countries (e.g., inEurope or in Asia), the outlet of the water supply pipe P may be at alower height, for example, at about waist level (e.g., 3 to 4 feet abovethe floor of the installation). In an alternative, second configuration,illustrated in FIGS. 22-23, the shower bar system 20 may be modified toaccommodate an installation in which the water supply pipe is at a lowerheight.

For example, in the second configuration, the diverter stem 148 ismodified to define (see FIG. 22) a hole 284 on the end of the diverterstem 148 (closest to the wall W) (see also FIGS. 24-25). The transfervalve assembly 30 is coupled to the lower water supply pipe P in amanner similar to the connection of the upper supply bracket 56, in thefirst configuration described above. The supply adapter 40 is attachedto the lower water supply pipe P and inserted into the second arm 188 ofthe transfer valve body 144 (rather than into the upper supply bracket56). Thus, water enters the transfer valve body 144 and is passeddirectly to the diverter stem 148.

In the second configuration illustrated in FIGS. 22-23, the diverterstem 148 is modified to accommodate just a single pipe, instead of thefirst showerhead pipe 92 and the supply pipe 88. The supply pipe 88 andfirst showerhead pipe 92 are removed from the waterway assembly. Theinlet connector 64 is modified to accommodate a single pipe 292. Thesingle pipe 292 fluidly couples the diverter stem 148 to the inletconnector 64. In an alternative construction (not shown), the first andsecond showerhead pipes 92, 96 are coupled together to form a singlepipe.

In another embodiment, shown in FIGS. 24-25, the diverter stem 148 ismodified to accommodate the first configuration (including the secondcavity 216 coupled to the supply pipe 88 and the opening 178 coupled tothe first showerhead pipe 92) and the second configuration (defining asecond inlet 284 in the rear end (toward the wall W)). With thismodified diverter stem 148, the shower bar system 20 can selectively beused with a high or low supply pipe P with minimal modification requiredby the installer (e.g., a single shower bar system 20 can bemanufactured for use with either high or low supply pipes P).

In such a construction, when the shower bar system 20 is installed on ahigh supply pipe P, the installer closes the lower fluid connection ofthe shower bar system 20 (e.g., plugs the second arm 188 of the transfervalve body 144, or the second outlet 284) to inhibit water from leakingout of the escutcheon 172. When the shower bar system 20 is installed ona low supply pipe P, the installer closes the upper fluid connection ofthe shower bar system 20 (e.g., plugs the upper supply bracket 56 (thefirst cylindrical section 100, the second cylindrical section 104, etc.)to ensure that water does not exit the upper supply bracket 56 towardthe wall W.

Instead of plugging the un-used fluid connection of the shower barsystem 20, the shower bar system 20 may include a valve arrangement toprevent unwanted flow. For example, a check valve (not shown) may beprovided for each fluid connection to allow incoming flow from theselected fluid connection (e.g., the high supply pipe P) and to preventoutgoing flow through the un-used fluid connection (e.g., the low supplypipe P). One check valve (not shown) could be disposed at a locationbetween the second cavity 216 and the upper supply bracket 56 to inhibitwater from exiting the upper supply bracket 56 when the shower barsystem 20 is installed on a low supply pipe P and to allow water intothe upper supply bracket 56 when the shower bar system 20 is installedon a high supply pipe P. Another check valve (not shown) may be disposedin or near the second inlet 284 or second arm 188 to inhibit water fromexiting through the escutcheon 172 when the shower bar system 20 isinstalled on a high supply pipe P and to allow water into the secondinlet 284 when the shower bar system 20 is installed on a low supplypipe P.

The shower bar system 20 described herein may provide severalindependent features and/or independent advantages. The shower barsystem 20 may be installed into an existing shower from the shower area.The installer does not need to directly access the area behind theshower wall. In other words, the installer does not need to remove aportion of the wall sufficient for the installer to reach through andmanipulate structure (e.g., the water supply pipe P, the connection tothe supply pipe P, etc.) behind the wall. The installer only needs tomake a hole in the wall W to accommodate the supply adapter 40 and theupper supply bracket 56 is necessary. Thus, the shower bar system 20 maybe retrofitted into an existing shower easily and in a cost-effectivemanner, as compared to other shower bar systems.

The shower bar system 20 can be installed in showers that have walls ofvarying thickness. As described above, the supply adapter 40 is able toaccommodate walls of different thicknesses. The shower bar system 20 canbe installed in showers in which the shower wall W is offset from a wallwhere the water supply is accessed or in which the outlet of the watersupply pipe is a varying depths. The shower bar system 20 can beinstalled in such locations because the supply adapter 40 is able, asexplained above, to telescope into and out of the upper supply bracket56, thus allowing the shower bar system 20 to reach the household watersupply, regardless of depth behind the wall W, while maintaining theshower bar 26 in a vertical orientation.

The shower bar system 20 may provide the transfer valve assembly 30 in alocation which is more accessible to users (e.g., because of the lowerheight of the transfer valve assembly 30). The illustrated shower barsystem 20 transfers the load to the shower wall, not the water supplypipe P. Thus, the risk of damaging the water supply pipe P is minimizedbecause pulling forces which may be transferred from the shower barsystem 20 to the water supply pipe P are minimal. The illustrated showerbar system 20 may be able to withstand a pull force of 300 lbs. or more.

The tube-in-tube design of the shower bar 26 provides for greaterflexibility of material selection for components disposed in theinterior of the shower bar 26, such as the supply pipe 88, the firstshowerhead pipe 92, the second showerhead pipe 96, the inlet connector64, etc. Various laws and codes limit the use of certain materials whichmay be exposed to the consumer directly or through the supplied water.

The shower bar system 20 may provide a handshower hose 264 that does notinterfere with the shower on/off valve V. The angled hose connector 32directs the handshower hose 264 around the shower on/off valve V, ratherthan on top of and/or against the shower on/off valve V (as is done bycurrent handshower hoses), to avoid interference. The shower bar system20 may provide a handshower 24 that is convenient and easy to usebecause the angled hose connector 32 swivels relative to the shower bar26. Thus, the user is able to move the handshower 24 to different areasof the shower without having the handshower hose 264 bind on the showerbar 26.

The shower bar system 20 allows for the user to select a right-hand or aleft-hand orientation. In the left-hand orientation, the handshower 24is placed on the left-hand side of the shower bar 26, the bracketassembly 34 is turned to hold the handshower 24 on the left-hand side ofthe shower bar 26, and the angled hose connector 32 is swiveled toaccommodate having the handshower 24 on the left-hand side of the showerbar 26. In the right-hand orientation, the handshower 24 is placed onthe right-hand side of the shower and the bracket assembly 34 and angledhose connector 32 are moved accordingly. In some installations, it isdesirable to select the right-hand or left-hand orientation due toobstructions on the shower wall such as, for example, soap holders,shelves, etc.

One or more independent features and independent advantages may be setforth in the following claims:

What is claimed is:
 1. An adjustable supply assembly for a showersystem, the shower system including a shower member, the assembly beingconnectable to a water supply including a supply pipe having a pipeoutlet, the assembly being fluidly connectable between the water supplyand the shower member so that the shower member is operable to dispensewater from the water supply, the assembly comprising: an adapterdefining an axis and having an inlet coupleable to the pipe outlet; asupply member having a supply outlet in fluid communication with theadapter, the supply member being coupled to the adapter for movementalong the axis to adjust a distance between the pipe outlet and thesupply outlet, the supply outlet being fluidly connectable to the showermember; and a seal positioned and operable to provide a sealedconnection between the adapter and the supply member in adjustedpositions of the supply member relative to the adapter.
 2. The assemblyof claim 1, wherein the shower system is mounted in an enclosure havinga wall, wherein the supply pipe is located on one side of the wall, andwherein the assembly is located on an other side of the wall.
 3. Theassembly of claim 2, further comprising a mounting collar engageablewith the other side of the wall, the supply member being coupled to themounting collar.
 4. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the supply memberis slidably coupled to the adapter.
 5. The assembly of claim 1, whereinthe seal includes an o-ring between the adapter and the supply member.6. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the adapter is threadedly coupled tothe supply pipe.
 7. A transfer valve assembly for a shower systemconnectable to a water supply, the system including a first showermember fluidly connectable to and operable to dispense water from thewater supply, the first shower member having a first shower memberinlet, and a second shower member fluidly connectable to and operable todispense water from the water supply, the second shower member having asecond shower member inlet, the transfer valve assembly comprising: avalve body defining a first valve inlet, a second valve inlet, a firstvalve outlet fluidly connectable to the first shower member inlet, and asecond valve outlet fluidly connectable to the second shower memberinlet, one the first valve inlet being fluidly connectable to a firstsupply pipe having a first pipe outlet at a first position and thesecond valve inlet being fluidly connectable to a second supply pipehaving a second pipe outlet at a second position, the other of the firstvalve inlet and the second valve inlet being sealed from the watersupply; a valve member positioned in the valve body for adjustmentbetween a first condition, in which the one of the first valve inlet andthe second valve inlet is in fluid communication with the first valveoutlet and is not in fluid communication with the second valve outlet,and a second condition, in which the one of the first valve inlet andthe second valve inlet is in fluid communication with the second valveoutlet and is not in fluid communication with the first valve outlet;and an actuator operable to adjust the valve member between the firstcondition and the second condition.
 8. The transfer valve assembly ofclaim 7, wherein the first shower member includes a showerhead.
 9. Thetransfer valve assembly of claim 7, wherein the second shower memberincludes a handshower.
 10. The transfer valve assembly of claim 9,wherein the handshower includes a hose having an inlet coupled to thesecond valve outlet.
 11. The transfer valve assembly of claim 7, whereinthe valve member is pivotable between the first condition and the secondcondition.
 12. The transfer valve assembly of claim 7, wherein theactuator includes a handle engageable by a user.
 13. A handshowerassembly connectable to a water supply, the water supply including asupply pipe having a pipe outlet, the handshower assembly comprising: aconnector having a connector inlet fluidly connectable with the pipeoutlet and a connector outlet, the connector inlet defining an inletaxis, the connector outlet defining an outlet axis angled relative tothe inlet axis; a hose having a hose inlet fluidly connected to theconnector outlet and a hose outlet, the hose having a first portionproximate the hose inlet, the first portion generally extending alongthe outlet axis and being angled relative to the inlet axis; and ahandshower member coupled to the hose outlet and operable to dispensewater from the water supply.
 14. The handshower assembly of claim 13,wherein the outlet axis is angled about 45 degrees from the axis of theshower supply pipe.
 15. The handshower assembly of claim 13, wherein ashower supply pipe has a supply inlet fluidly connectable to the pipeoutlet and a supply outlet, the shower supply pipe extending along anaxis and being positioned with the axis being oriented generallyvertically, and wherein the connector is pivotally coupled to the showersupply pipe for pivoting movement about the axis of the shower supplypipe.
 16. The handshower assembly of claim 15, further comprising ahandshower support member operable to support the handshower along theshower supply pipe.
 17. The handshower assembly of claim 16, furthercomprising an outer pipe surrounding the shower supply pipe, the supportmember being slidable along the outer pipe.
 18. The handshower assemblyof claim 16, wherein the support member is coupled to the outer pipe forpivoting movement about the axis of the shower supply pipe.